The bariatric surgery service at Somerset NHS Foundation Trust has once again earned the prestigious international Center of Excellence accreditation from the American Surgical Review Corporation (SRC), highlighting its outstanding commitment to patient care and innovation.
Comprising five consultant surgeons, specialist nurses, psychologists, dietitians, and supported by endocrinology and inpatient teams, the multidisciplinary bariatric unit offers seamless care from referral through surgery to long-term recovery. The team guides patients on their journey to sustained weight loss, offering support for up to two years post-operation.
Zoe Hall, one of the Trust’s bariatric specialist nurses, reflects on the journey: “We first received this accreditation back in 2009 when I started at Musgrove Park Hospital, and we’ve maintained it through every inspection. This year’s on-site visit, the first since the pandemic, ensured we meet rigorous standards across outpatient care, theatres, recovery, and wards, including the availability of specialist bariatric equipment.”
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The assessment was led by Dr. Neil Hutcher, a distinguished former bariatric surgeon from the U.S. and current Chief Medical Officer at SRC. Alongside reviewing performance data, Dr. Hutcher praised the Trust for introducing robotic bariatric surgery, enhancing precision and outcomes.
Another innovation is the partnership with Allurion, which offers certain patients a gastric balloon to suppress appetite pre-surgery, improving their fitness for the procedure. Nurses Zoe Hall and Kirsty Lock play a vital role in monitoring and motivating patients through this phase with nutrition and exercise guidance.
Uniquely, Somerset NHS Foundation Trust is the first NHS trust to achieve this international accolade, impressing even Dr. Hutcher who noted many other accredited centers are private providers. Patients report life-changing benefits, including remission of hypertension and diabetes, boosting quality of life significantly.
Professor Richard Welbourn, a consultant bariatric surgeon, remarked, “This accreditation honors two decades of excellence and innovation in treating severe obesity, establishing us as a leading UK center.”
Patient Dave Pulford shared his transformative story: “After fitting the new gastric balloon in February 2024, I lost nearly five stone, enabling gastric bypass in August 2024. Since then, I’ve shed almost 13 stone. The surgeons and support team equipped me with the tools, but the emotional support and personal commitment were equally crucial. The team listened, encouraged, and helped me change not just physically, but mentally too. My journey, which has received local media attention, has inspired others, and I stay in touch with many on similar paths.”
SRC CEO Gary M. Pratt praised Musgrove Park Hospital’s dedication, stating, “This accreditation places the facility among the best worldwide, reflecting an unwavering focus on high-quality patient care.”